St Edward's A Level Guide 2026

POLITICS

Edexcel

The A Level course is designed to allow pupils to develop a sophisticated knowledge and understanding of political theory combined with an awareness of current issues and the changing political landscape. The course investigates the structures and systems of the British political system, for example analysing the effectiveness of Parliament at scrutinising government legislation or assessing the arguments around constitutional reform. You will consider how people engage in politics, from pressure groups to the media. In addition, you will also look at three traditional political ideas of conservatism, liberalism and socialism, alongside feminism. Finally, the course goes on to look at American politics, picking up on the skills and knowledge acquired in the first two units and considering a similar range of topics, but in an American setting. Outside the classroom, there will also be the opportunity to participate in wider political debate with your peers through the Politics Society and to attend talks from visiting speakers.

Pupils will study three units:

COMPONENT

CONTENT

ASSESSMENT

UK Politics and Core Political Ideas

1. Democracy and participation 2. Political parties 3. Electoral systems 4. Voting behaviour and the media 5. Core political ideas (Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism)

2 hr exam

UK Government and Non-core Political Ideas

6. The constitution 7. Parliament 8. Prime Minister and executive 9. The Supreme Court and judicial system 10. Feminism

2 hr exam

American Politics

11. The US constitution 12. Congress

2 hr exam

13. The Supreme Court and judicial system 14. The Presidency including case studies of the five most recent Presidents 15. American political parties and the electoral system 16. A comparison of aspects of American and British Politics

ST EDWARD’S OXFORD

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